BOSTON (AP) - The Patrick administration is spending $8 million to create eight new regional homeless networks to help find permanent housing for people living in shelters and on the street.

The move is part of the state's push to virtually end homelessness in five years.

Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray said Tuesday that the money would help organizations scattered across the state work together to ease pressure on emergency shelters. One goal is to intercept families on the verge of homelessness, and then offer them support before they end up on the street.

The spending comes despite new warnings that state revenues could plunge by another $749 million.

Murray defended the initiative, saying that in the long run it will save the state money.